The Uncomfortable Truth About Who's Really Winning in House Music | EF EP 113
Most artists won't say this out loud, but DJ Lady D will: the house music scene has a problem, and it's not what you think. Chicago's House Music Queen is calling out the uncomfortable truth about who's really getting rewarded in dance music - and it's not always the people who deserve it.While the world's best DJs created the culture in Chicago, only a handful are seeing the financial success that matches their influence. Lady D breaks down why focusing on the past might be holding the scene back, and what artists need to do differently to build sustainable careers.This isn't just about Chicago house music - it's about every artist who's wondered why talent doesn't always equal success, and what you can actually control in an industry that loves to celebrate history while the future slips away.Key Takeaways:• The controversial truth about focusing on history vs. building profitable careers• How to navigate the cyclical nature of the music industry without burning out• Why "moderation is sexy" and could save your career and your life• Why giving back to your community isn't just good karma - it's good business• How to balance creative passion with financial sustainabilityThe industry rewards who it wants to reward, but your response to that reality is what defines your career. Hit play now to hear the truth most people won't tell you.Connect with me: @oliviamancuso__Video Editor/Audio Engineer: James Fixx
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How to Build Multiple Revenue Streams as an Artist w/Night Tales | EF EP 113
Think you need to stay in one lane to build a successful music career? Night Tales just proved that wrong by creating CLR (Colour, Love, Rhythm) - a groundbreaking event series that's taking them around the country.CLR is a hybrid experience that partners with local bands, dancers, and cultural performers in each city, creating shows that reflect each community's unique identity. From working with a 10-piece marching band and Outkast horn players in Atlanta to collaborating with indigenous Navajo tribes in Utah, each show is completely different while maintaining the core Night Tales DNA.Key Takeaways:• Why owning your IP is crucial for long-term career sustainability • How to expand your brand without confusing your core fanbase• The importance of building community-focused experiences over traditional DJ sets• How to handle inevitable setbacks when building something new • How to balance multiple creative projects under one artist umbrella • Why building your own infrastructure gives you creative freedomStop limiting yourself to one revenue stream. Hit play now to learn how Night Tales built a music empire that goes far beyond the decks.Connect with me: @oliviamancuso__Video Editor/Audio Engineer: James Fixx
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The Industry Will Change Whether You Like It or Not: Gene Farris' Strategy | EF EP 112
The music industry will change whether you like it or not. Chicago house legend Gene Farris has watched it transform completely over three decades - from needing vinyl releases to get overseas gigs to watching sync buttons replace beatmatching skills. His survival strategy? Build your own infrastructure.With over 500 releases on Ferris Wheel Recordings, Gene has created his own platform where he controls the quality, sound, and standards. When the industry shifts in ways you don't agree with, you have two choices: adapt completely or build your own lane where your values still matter.Key Takeaways:Why building your own platform is essential for long-term survivalHow Chicago's house music culture shaped modern dance music standardsThe controversial truth about sync buttons vs. traditional beatmatching skillsWhy technical proficiency still matters in an automated worldHow to maintain artistic standards while the industry evolves around youThe importance of controlling your own distribution and releasesHow sobriety can unlock your true creative potential and productivityThe evolution from underground warehouse parties to global recognitionWhy waiting your turn and building organically leads to lasting successThe balance between staying true to your roots and adapting to changeWant to create your own events? Get my complete 9-part DIY Pop-Up Party Guide for $25 - everything from permits to promotion, venue negotiation, content creation, and more. Get it here. The industry keeps changing, but your standards don't have to. Hit play now to learn how to build something you can control.Connect with me: @oliviamancuso__Video Editor/Audio Engineer: James Fixx
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From 30 to 400 People in 12 Months: How to Build Your Own Scene | EF EP 111
Most DJs complain about not getting booked. Sarat, a drone pilot and DJ, created his own bookings instead. In just one year, he grew his sunrise sets from 30 people to 400+ people by building the scene he wanted to be part of.Starting with nothing but a unique perspective of Chicago from his drone footage and a love for melodic house music, Sarat created sunrise events that serve a community craving something different from traditional club experiences. His story proves that when you stop waiting for permission and start solving real problems for real people, growth happens organically.Note: Apologies for the shorter episode format - we lost some footage due to technical issues from the flood, but the story and insights remain powerful.Key Takeaways:Why starting with 10 people is better than waiting for the perfect momentHow to identify gaps in your local scene and fill them yourselfUsing your unique skills and perspective to create something originalThe power of consistency and respect in building sustainable eventsHow word-of-mouth marketing outperforms paid promotionWhy authentic experiences attract the right communityBuilding something that serves people rather than just promotes yourselfHow to evolve your concept while maintaining your core audienceThe importance of contributing something beautiful to your communityWhy morning events create different energy than traditional nightlifeWant to create your own events? Get my complete 9-part DIY Pop-Up Party Guide for $25 - everything from permits to promotion, venue negotiation, content creation and more. Grab it here.Stop waiting for opportunities. Hit play now to learn how to create the scene you want to be part of.Connect with me: @oliviamancuso__Video Editor/Audio Engineer: James Fixx
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The $3 Million Marketing Strategy Every Artist Needs to Know | EF EP 110
Think you need millions of followers to build a successful music career? This conversation with Alex Hilburn, Co-Founder of Surge Marketing, will completely change how you think about fan engagement and marketing.While most artists are burning money on digital ads and chasing follower counts, Surge has generated $3 million in ticket sales by turning regular fans into active ambassadors. Their secret? Understanding that one superfan with 1,000 followers can sell $50,000 worth of tickets because they have genuine influence within their network.Key Takeaways:Why superfans matter more than follower counts in tough economic timesHow to identify and nurture your most engaged fans into ambassadorsThe psychology behind what actually motivates people to attend eventsWhy word-of-mouth marketing outperforms digital advertisingHow to build genuine relationships instead of transactional interactionsThe difference between fans and superfans (and how to create more of the latter)Why people want to go where their friends are goingHow to create authentic community around your musicThe evolution from digital ads back to relationship-based marketingWhy consistency and authenticity build sustainable fan basesStop chasing metrics and start building relationships. Hit play now to learn how superfans could transform your music career.Connect with me: @oliviamancuso__Video Editor/Audio Engineer: James Fixx
Entrepreneur and Chicago Music Nexus co-founder Olivia Mancuso cues up insider tips and real-world stories to help aspiring house and techno artists turn their passion into profit.
After scaling her business from zero to six figures in six months, Olivia is ready to help with everything from setting up an LLC to building your personal brand.
Each week, she’ll share personal insights alongside interviews with artists, promoters, label owners, and agents - all with the aim of elevating your house and techno journey.
For more content on growing your career, brand, and business, check out Olivia’s Instagram: http://www.instagram.com/oliviamancuso__
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